Best Places to visit near Grand Palace Bangkok
Bangkok, the City of Angels, never ceases to amaze its visitors with its perfect blend of ancient and modern, sacred and profane. In the heart of this thriving metropolis lies the Grand Palace, a magnificent symbol of the Thai monarchy and a must-see for travelers. Yet, as you step beyond its gilded walls, a treasure trove of cultural experiences and hidden gems awaits you. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the best places to visit near the Grand Palace, each offering a unique taste of Bangkok’s vibrant charm.
As we navigate through the maze of narrow alleys and bustling streets, we’ll uncover the secrets of Wat Pho, with its gigantic reclining Buddha, and marvel at the stunning architecture of Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn. We’ll meander through colorful markets like Pak Khlong Talat, the city’s renowned flower market, and sample delectable street food in Tha Tien. Get ready to immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of history, culture, and gastronomy that lies just footsteps away from the Grand Palace, and embrace the enchanting spirit of Bangkok in all its glory.
National Museum
Nestled within the bustling city, the National Museum is easily accessible by hopping off at Chang Pier, Maharaj Pier, or Phra Chan Tai Pier. With its roots dating back to 1782 as the palace of Rama I’s viceroy, Prince Wang Na, this historic site was transformed into a museum in 1874 by Rama V. Today, the museum sprawls across multiple buildings, featuring three permanent exhibitions that provide a captivating experience for history buffs and casual visitors alike.
To truly appreciate the treasures housed within this monumental institution, we highly recommend joining one of the museum’s free guided tours, available twice a week (Wednesdays and Thursdays) at 9.30 am. These tours are not only free with your museum admission (which costs 200B), but they also offer valuable insights into the stories behind the artifacts you’ll encounter.
During our visit, we noticed that some of the exhibition halls were undergoing renovations, which only served to heighten our anticipation for what’s to come! So, join us as we embark on a thrilling adventure through Thailand’s National Museum, unearthing the secrets and wonders that lie within its walls.
Address: 4 Th Na Phra That, Bangkok, Thailand
Open Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, from 9:00am to 4:00pm
Admission Fee: 200B
How to Go: The National Museum can be reached by taking a riverboat to Chang Pier, Maharaj Pier, or Phra Chan Tai Pier. You can also take a taxi or use public transportation to reach the museum. Google Maps can help you find the best route.
Museum of Siam
As you approach the museum, be prepared to be enchanted by the 19th-century European-style building that once served as the Ministry of Commerce. Step inside, and you’ll soon discover that the Museum of Siam is anything but ordinary. Embracing a modern and interactive approach, the exhibits are presented in a refreshingly engaging manner, leaving behind the traditional museum experience found in other Thai institutions.
From thought-provoking galleries to interactive displays, this vibrant museum promises an immersive journey into the heart of Thailand’s history. Here, you’ll find a perfect blend of entertainment and education as you navigate through questions surrounding the origins of the nation and its people.
Address: Th Maha Rat, Bangkok, Thailand
Open Hours:: 10am-6pm, Tuesday-Sunday
How to Go: Take a boat to Tien Pier, then walk to the museum.
Golden Mount & Wat Saket
Picture yourself venturing off the beaten path in the bustling city of Bangkok, where you’ll find the enchanting Golden Mount (Phu Khao Thong) and the mesmerizing Wat Saket. These two hidden gems beckon travelers seeking a unique blend of serenity, history, and captivating artistry.
As you embark on the invigorating climb up the Golden Mount, be prepared for a journey unlike any other. Ascending the serpentine steps, you’ll wind through an artificial hill, shaded by ancient, gnarled trees. The path takes you past intriguing graves and images of the site’s wealthy benefactors, a testament to the significance of this sacred space.
Upon reaching the summit, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree view of Bangkok’s most picturesque side, a perfect backdrop for those awe-inspiring snapshots you’ll cherish forever.
But the adventure doesn’t end there! Just steps away, you’ll find the tranquil Wat Saket, a seemingly serene temple that houses a captivating secret. Within its walls, you’ll discover stunning murals that are simultaneously beautiful and gruesome. Venture behind the Buddha statue to unveil explicit depictions of Buddhist hell, a fascinating contrast to the peaceful atmosphere that envelops the temple.
Address: Th Boriphat, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok, Thailand
Admission fee: 10B to reach the summit of the Golden Mount
Opening hours: 7.30am to 5.30pm
Nearest pier: Phanfa Leelard Pier (take a boat to reach there)
Royal Barges National Museum
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the grandeur of a bygone era as we take you on an unforgettable journey to the Royal Barges National Museum (พิพิธภัณฑสถานแห่งชาติเรือพระราชพิธี/เรือพระที่นั่ง). Nestled along the picturesque Khlong Bangkok Noi, this fascinating museum is a treasure trove of historic vessels dating back to the Ayutthaya period, each telling a unique story of Thailand’s regal past.
As you wander through the museum, marvel at the breathtaking craftsmanship of the exquisite Suphannahong, the king’s personal barge adorned with a magnificent swan head carved into its bow. This awe-inspiring vessel is a testament to the splendor and elegance of royal travel in days gone by.
But the wonders don’t end there! Explore the collection of other resplendent barges, each boasting intricate carvings inspired by Hindu-Buddhist mythology. From the powerful naga, a mythical sea serpent, to the majestic garuda, Vishnu’s revered bird mount, each barge tells a captivating tale of the kingdom’s rich cultural heritage.
Address: Khlong Bangkok Noi or 80/1 Th Arun Amarin, Bangkok, Thailand
Open Hours: 9am-5pm
How to go there: Take a boat to Phra Pin Klao Bridge Pier, then walk to the museum.
Talat Mai
Talat Mai market (ตลาดใหม่), a true culinary treasure trove steeped in nearly two centuries of commerce. While its name, ‘New Market,’ may no longer be an entirely accurate description, there’s no denying the rich tapestry of flavors, colors, and aromas that await you as you navigate the narrow alleyways of this iconic marketplace.
Often hailed as Thailand’s most Chinese market, Talat Mai is a haven for food enthusiasts who crave a taste of authentic Chinese ingredients. From exotic dried goods, fragrant spices, and mouthwatering seasonings to an array of sauces reminiscent of China’s diverse culinary landscape, this bustling bazaar is guaranteed to ignite your senses.
But don’t worry if food isn’t your main focus – Talat Mai offers an unforgettable sensory experience for all who venture within its lively confines. Embrace the market’s vibrant atmosphere, where the cacophony of sounds, the enticing aromas, and the whirlwind of activity create a surreal, immersive encounter. Just be sure to stay alert for the occasional motorcycle zipping through the throngs of eager shoppers
Address: Soi Yaowarat 6/Charoen Krung 16, Bangkok, Thailand
Open Hours: 6am-6pm
How to go there: Take a boat to Ratchawong Pier or take the metro to Hua Lamphong exit 1 and then take a taxi.
Wat Arun
Wat Arun (วัดอรุณ), the iconic Temple of Dawn. Perched on the banks of the majestic Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun stands as a symbol of the Thai nation’s rebirth following the devastating fall of Ayutthaya to the invading Burmese army in the 1700s.
As you approach this awe-inspiring riverside monument, prepare to be enchanted by its stunning facade, adorned with delicate porcelain mosaics that hark back to a bygone era. These intricate embellishments tell the story of a time when Chinese porcelain was used as ship ballasts, later repurposed to create mesmerizing temple decorations that stand the test of time.
Step inside the sacred grounds of Wat Arun, and you’ll be transported to a world of serenity and beauty, where the fascinating history of Thailand’s resilient spirit comes to life. Are you ready to embark on this unforgettable journey of discovery? Let us guide you through the captivating story of Wat Arun, a testament to the power of perseverance and the enduring allure of Thailand’s rich cultural heritage.
Address: Off Th Arun Amarin, Bangkok, Thailand
Open Hours: 8am-6pm
How to Go: Take a cross-river ferry from Tien Pier to Wat Arun.
Wat Traimit
Wat Traimit. As you step inside this temple, you will undoubtedly be drawn to the magnificent Buddha image that sits at its heart. This solid-gold statue stands at an impressive 3 meters tall and weighs an astonishing 5.5 tonnes.
The image itself is sculpted in the graceful Sukhothai style, and it is said to date back over 700 years. What makes this statue even more remarkable is the story of how it was discovered.
Over 60 years ago, the Buddha image was covered in a layer of stucco and plaster, which effectively hid its true identity. It wasn’t until the statue was being moved to a new building within the temple compound that disaster struck. The statue fell from the crane that was transporting it and broke open, revealing the solid-gold Buddha image inside.
Since then, the Wat Traimit has become famous as the home of this incredible statue. Visitors flock to the temple from all over the world to witness its sheer beauty and to learn more about its fascinating history. So, come along with me as we explore Wat Traimit and uncover the secrets of this incredible solid-gold Buddha image.
Address: Th Mittaphap Thai-China
Admission: 100B
Opening hours: 8 am to 5 pm
Nearest MRT station: Hua Lamphong (exit 1) Closest pier: Ratchawong Pier
Amulet Market
The market boasts an extensive network of covered stalls that run south from Phra Chan Pier, with the easiest entry point clearly marked as ‘Trok Maha That’.
The trade in the Amulet Market centers around small talismans that hold great significance to those who seek them out. These talismans are carefully crafted and believed to possess supernatural powers, bringing good luck, prosperity, and protection to those who wear them. As you navigate through the labyrinth of stalls, you’ll come across a fascinating array of amulets, ranging from ancient and rare pieces to modern and mass-produced ones.
Visiting the Amulet Market is not only an opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs but also a chance to immerse yourself in the intriguing world of Thai spirituality and superstition. Join us as we delve deeper into the mysteries of the Amulet Market and uncover the stories behind these fascinating talismans.
Address: Amulet Market, Th Maha Rat, Bangkok, Thailand
Opening hours: 7am-5pm
How to Go: You can reach the Amulet Market via Chang Pier, Maharaj Pier, or Phra Chan Tai Pier. The easiest entry point is marked ‘Trok Maha That’.
